Downtown Buffalo Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Buffalo

Renting a car in Downtown Buffalo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Canalside, a historic site perfect for cultural experiences, and Shea's Performing Arts Center, known for its rich artistic offerings. Niagara Square, an inviting piazza, is also within reach, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and city life. The convenience of a rental car becomes even more apparent for families and those seeking themed entertainment, as it facilitates easy luggage management and the ability to create flexible travel plans. Additionally, popular destinations like the Buffalo Theater District and Columbus are less than 1 km away, making it easy to explore more of what the area has to offer. Whether you're travelling with family or looking to enjoy the city's vibrant culture, a rental car enhances your experience by providing the convenience to visit multiple attractions without the restrictions of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Buffalo

• Fullsize: Ideal for families or groups, the Fullsize car accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers ample space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides the perfect balance between comfort and capacity, making it an excellent choice for exploring the attractions in and around Downtown Buffalo without feeling cramped.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle combines versatility and comfort, allowing you to navigate the city and its surroundings with ease, providing both a spacious interior and a higher driving position for better visibility.
• Mini Van: Best suited for larger families or groups, the Mini Van can accommodate up to 8 travellers and has room for up to 6 large suitcases. This option is ideal for those who need extra seating and cargo space, ensuring everyone can travel together comfortably while exploring all that Downtown Buffalo has to offer.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Buffalo

• Budget: Budget has 1 rental location situated 3 km away from Downtown Buffalo, offering convenience for travellers. Known for its competitive rates, Budget provides a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs. The most booked cars with this supplier are Fullsize and Midsize SUVs, making it a popular choice for families and those needing extra space. With Budget, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring the area at your own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 2 rental locations within the Downtown Buffalo area, making it easily accessible for tourists. This supplier is highly regarded for its wide selection of vehicles, especially its Economy and Midsize SUVs, which are popular among travellers. Hertz is known for its efficient service, allowing for a smooth rental process, which is ideal for those looking to make the most of their time in Buffalo.
• Avis: Avis features 1 rental location located 3 km from Downtown Buffalo, offering a reliable option for car rentals. This supplier is particularly noted for its Fullsize Vans and Midsize SUVs, catering well to groups or those with more luggage. Avis is recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction and efficient service, making it a solid choice for travellers wanting to explore the sights of Buffalo and beyond.

Where to stay around Downtown Buffalo

• Downtown Buffalo: The heart of Buffalo, Downtown Buffalo is ideal for families and city-themed experiences. It's a short distance to key attractions like Canalside, Shea's Performing Arts Center, and Niagara Square. With a variety of nearby food and drink options, including wineries and breweries, visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and culinary delights. This vibrant area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's atmosphere.
• Buffalo Theater District: Located less than 1 km from Downtown Buffalo, the Buffalo Theater District is a hub for entertainment and family activities. It features attractions like Shea's Performing Arts Center and is close to Canalside and Niagara Square. With an array of nearby dining options, including alcohol wineries and breweries, this neighbourhood is ideal for couples seeking a romantic evening out or families who want to enjoy a show after a day of exploring.
• Allentown: Situated less than 1 km from Downtown Buffalo, Allentown is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor and city-themed experiences. This neighbourhood offers access to parks, modern college universities, and attractions such as Shea's Performing Arts Center and Canalside. Visitors can also explore local shopping centres and enjoy nearby food and drink options, including wineries and breweries, making it a great choice for families looking for a vibrant community atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Buffalo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, Expedia’s filters will assist you in finding the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain more favourable rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller vehicles are less expensive to rent and easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should any unforeseen issues arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Buffalo

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Buffalo is September, as prices are slightly low and demand is moderately high. May also offers a good value with slightly low prices and average demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand. July follows as a busy period, leading to average prices and moderately high demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.